The development of an ARM-based OBC for a nanosatellite

Next-generation nanosatellites are becoming a very cost effective solution to
gain access to space. Modern manufacturing technology together with low
power low cost devices makes the development of nanosatellites, using standard
industrial components, very attractive. A typical nanosatellite will have
only one microprocessor, capable of performing all the computing tasks onboard
the satellite - housekeeping, AODC (Attitude and Orbit Control) and
instructing the different payloads aboard the satellite.
One of the major requirements was to choose a processor from a dominant
manufacturer in the market that will still be available for future satellite
missions. Just as the 8051 dominated the 8-bit market, the ARM7 processor
is fast becoming a market leader in the segment for 16-bit applications.
ARM processors has also been used much in handheld devices in recent years -
which emphasize the low power requirements and stability of these processors
in embedded applications.
This thesis investigates the different processors that are currently available.
A complete system design is done, taking into account all the different modules
needed onboard a very small Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite. Finally, some
test results are given showing how this system can be reliably used onboard a
nanosatellite in future.